BRUSSELS, October 17, 2026 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised European leaders as “real leaders” during a summit in Belgium, highlighting their continued support amid strained relations with the United States.
Zelensky Highlights EU Support Amid U.S. Tensions
Zelensky arrived at the Brussels summit flanked by European Union leaders and emphasized the strength of Ukraine’s ties with the bloc, according to the statement from the event. He did not mention the deterioration in U.S. relations but underscored the EU’s consistent backing since the start of the war. “I’m so thankful that we have such huge support from (the) EU Council, Commission and leaders – real leaders – so that they stay with us from the very beginning of this war,” Zelensky said as he walked into the summit, according to the source material.
Trump’s Energy Deal and Ukraine’s Response
The U.S. president announced a surprise “energy ceasefire” with Russia on Sunday, which Ukraine observed by halting strikes on Russian oil refineries for three days. However, Kyiv resumed attacks after Russia failed to reciprocate, officials confirmed. Trump, who is eager to ease soaring global diesel prices ahead of next month’s midterm elections, had earlier struck a deal allowing Russian diesel exports, a move Zelensky said left him feeling betrayed. The U.S. president has blamed rising fuel prices on the Ukraine-Russia war while seeking to deflect attention from his unpopular war in Iran, according to the record.
Starlink Disruptions and Military Impact
Ukraine reported restrictions on Starshield, the military-grade version of Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service, which disrupted logistics and affected frontline operations. Zelensky said on Friday that Starlink operations had improved but were not yet fully restored, noting the military relied on Starlink-equipped drones to deliver food and water to troops. “They disrupted logistics and compromised the protection of the civilian population. That’s why this is very troubling,” he said. When asked about the speed of service, Zelensky added, “Have we fully restored the speed we had before? No. Is the speed coming back? Yes.” Trump denied involvement, telling reporters at the White House, “I didn’t do that. No, we didn’t do that at all. It wasn’t me, and I don’t think it was Elon (Musk). And from what I understand, it’s the same as it’s always been.” He added that he was unsure whether any speed restrictions existed on Ukraine’s use of Starshield.
Trump’s Remarks and Walkback on Zelensky
On Thursday, Trump lashed out at Zelensky in an interview with Newsmax, saying he found him “more difficult to deal with than Putin.” The following day, he walked back his comments, stating he had a “good” relationship with his Ukrainian counterpart. “I want him to do one thing,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “Settle the war,” he said, according to the source material.
European Leaders Rally Around Ukraine Amid U.S. Pressure
European leaders are rallying around Zelensky after the White House heaped pressure on Ukraine to halt strikes on Russian oil facilities, even as Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure continue unabated. This support comes as Kyiv faces mounting difficulties, including reported restrictions on Starshield, the military-grade version of Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service.
Zelensky said on Friday that the Starlink operations had improved but had not yet been fully restored. “They disrupted logistics and compromised the protection of the civilian population. That’s why this is very troubling,” he said, noting the military relied on Starlink-equipped drones, which need to move at a high speed, to deliver food and water to troops on the frontline.
Sources
- Zelensky praises ‘real leaders’ in Europe as his relationship with Trump deteriorates | CNN
- Zelensky praises ‘real leaders’ in Europe as his relationship with Trump deteriorates | CNN
- Zelensky praises ‘real leaders’ in Europe as his relationship with Trump deteriorates | CNN
Photo: The White House (Public domain)
